In examining the role of security contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan, the author draws broad lessons from which he provides concrete recommendations to improve the conduct of further missions. Rather than do away with contractors altogether, the author recommends limiting their roles, providing better oversight of their activities, and improving legal accountability for their wrong doing. This monograph will be of interest to soldiers and policymakers engaged in the difficult task of planning and conducting contingency operations.

"May 2014." Format not distributed to depository libraries.

Introduction -- Contractors and the U.S. military -- The unique nature of private military security contractors -- Iraq and the contractor surge -- Contractors and controversy -- Fixing the problem -- Afghanistan -- Lessons from Iraq and Afghanistan -- Recommendations -- Conclusion : implications for U.S. land forces.